Thomas Hart, a speechwriter for the Dutch Minister of Economic Affairs in The Hague, presented his topic while referring to examples and group work activities that facilitated comprehension of the concepts discussed. In particular, the workshop addressed the ways to prepare, structure, and style writing in order to achieve effective and memorable communication. Specifically, it focused on presentation writing and speechwriting, as well as incorporating clear and persuasive communication in advocacy, and influencing policy.

In the first half of the workshop, Hart presented the basics of clear and persuasive communication by illustrating the elements of speech writing and presentation, identifying key strategies in tailoring one’s writing, especially when addressing any particular audience.

The second half of the workshop focused on the importance of balancing between interaction with and control of the audience while giving a presentation. Hart discussed how one must always strategically decide whether to portray themselves as either more knowledgeable, credible, and “superior” than their audience, or as being on the same level as the audience as a fellow comrade. For example, in the context of Lebanon, a politician may manipulate his language, tone, and accent while giving a speech in order to gain the support of his constituents by either using familiar accents and sayings used, or by using much more formal language. Additionally, two interactive exercises were designed and organised in line with the workshop agenda as to allow participants to become greater exposed to advocacy and policy influencing.

The Civil Society Incubator, a programme officially launched by Lebanon Support in 2016, shares our expertise of over 10 years working in the field of civil society.

By providing tailored support and mentorship for civil society actors in Lebanon, the Civil Society Incubator is designed to foster the creation, development, and growth of local civil society and public action initiatives, organisations, or projects in Lebanon.

Most importantly, this programme does not follow a ready-made format, but is rather designed and customised based on the needs of each partner.

Why did Lebanon Support launch this programme?

Lebanon Support has been providing informal support and coaching over the past years through its first two programmes, Daleel Madani and the Civil Society Knowledge Centre. In our mission to enhance civil society capacity, efficiency, and effectiveness through the creation of public spaces, Lebanon Support has launched the Civil Society Incubator. The Civil Society Incubator aims to enable and empower civil society actors to enhance their projects and activities, better target their interventions, and help them influence policy through the provision of training and resources.

How can you benefit from this programme?

Incubation at Lebanon Support is done through an array of services such as provision of office space, resources, etc, as well as coaching and mentoring on a variety of topics such as administrative matters, research, communication, networking, and web development, among others.

As part of its mission to build the capacity of civil society actors, the Civil Society Incubator also organises free and open workshops for individuals working in civil society in Lebanon.

This blog will showcase various activities of the Civil Society Incubator and feature updates about the programme, including upcoming events and workshops. The blog will also link to resources developed as part of the incubator.